Dog Dies Following House Explosion in Alpena

In the early afternoon on Wednesday, Alpena Township Fire was called to a house near Michigan Avenue.

Upon arrival, crews found flames coming from the building and several windows blown out. “There’s a lot of damage inside the structure. The outside shell is obviously saved but overall a lot of damage,” said Mark Hansen, Alpena Township fire chief.

Crews were able to get the fire under control and attempted to rescue a dog from inside. The dog later succumbed to smoke inhalation.

One of the neighbors, who wished to remain anonymous, said he witnessed the explosion and also saw someone leave the house and drive away.

As of right now, the fire is under investigation.